Full Spectrum of Diagnostics for Prompt, Accurate Answers
A serious heart problem is a serious concern. That’s why the Providence St. Peter Regional Heart Center is equipped with the latest diagnostic equipment and highly trained physicians and staff. Here, you’ll find: Cardiac CT (Computerized Topography)
Available by referral from a cardiologist, cardiac CT is a test that uses CT technology to visualize the heart, coronary circulation and vessels. It may also show if there is a build up of plaque in the heart’s arteries and whether additional tests are needed. Diagnostic Cardiac Catheterization
This allows physicians to evaluate the function of the heart or confirm the presence of heart disease. It also provides critical information needed for further treatment. Echocardiogram
An ultrasound procedure that uses sound waves to evaluate the size, strength and condition of the chambers and valves of the heart. Electrophysiology Study
A procedure to evaluate problems associated with an abnormal heart rhythm. Exercise Stress Testing
A simple test to assess the effect of exercise on the heart. Nuclear Medicine Testing
Lowdose radiation creates images that demonstrate heart function and blood flow to the heart muscle. Cardiac Interventional Procedures
For many patients suffering from heart disease or a heart attack, care begins in our Cardiac Catheterization Lab. Working closely with the Providence Emergency Department and referring physicians, skilled cardiologists and cardiac care teams offer the most effective treatments and superior outcomes. Minimally invasive procedures offered include: Thrombolysis
Administration of clot dissolving drugs. Angioplasty
A procedure to open blocked heart vessels, angioplasty uses balloon dilation. Arthrectomy
Similar to angioplasty, this is a procedure for opening a coronary artery blocked by plaque utilizing a rotating, cutting device.  Stent Placement
Stents are small wire, mesh tubes that keep arteries open after angioplasty is performed. At Providence, our cardiologists use the latest drug-eluting stents to help prevent re-clogging and reduce the likelihood additional procedures or surgeries will be needed.
Electrophysiology Lab
From atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter to ventricular tachycardia, the facilities and staff at Providence offers a full range of minimally invasive procedures to treat heart arrhythmias, also known as heart rhythm disturbances. Our Regional Heart Center offers a range of diagnostics and treatments, including: Ablation – A catheter delivers radio frequency energy to the area of the heart that is causing abnormal rhythm. It is then cauterized, which stops the abnormal rhythm in most cases. Biventricular Pacing – Used for patients who have congestive heart failure, this procedure “resynchronizes” the timing of the electrical impulses of the heart. Defibrillator Implantation – Physicians implant a device that monitors the regularity of the heartbeat and delivers an electric shock if the heart begins fibrillation (fast or slow twitching of cardiac muscle fibers).  Pacemaker Implantation – A pacemaker is a device that helps pace the heart when the natural rate is too slow. This device is also implanted by physicians.
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